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Key points from our #FootyLaw20 #sportslaw session yesterday on duty of care & #COVIDー19:
Return to Play protocols need to be living documents that can be amended quickly in response to their effectiveness & the emergence of new scientific knowledge - the science is key
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Return to Play protocols need to be living documents that can be amended quickly in response to their effectiveness & the emergence of new scientific knowledge - the science is key
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Whilst governing bodies will need to lead the way on developing RTP protocols, clubs, venues & facilities will need to create bespoke versions to fit their own circumstances, including the individuals affected & environmental considerations.
#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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This may require specific protocols for BAME athletes, women, players with relevant underlying conditions & for different age groups. Again, scientific knowledge is key, as is emerging data on transmission, long term impacts on health & fatalities.
#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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Once the CV19 protocols allow
athletes to return to training, the usual return to play/pre-season protocols still need to be followed. Players need time to return to match fitness & must have sufficient time to recover between games, otherwise injuries will occur.
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athletes to return to training, the usual return to play/pre-season protocols still need to be followed. Players need time to return to match fitness & must have sufficient time to recover between games, otherwise injuries will occur.
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Player unions are essential in helping to develop these RTP protocols & will continue to be so as the situation continues to evolve.
#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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It may turn out that no matter what steps are taken to protect players, it isn't possible to create safe working environments for athletes. There's no guarantee current seasons will be finished, new ones started on time, or that events like the Olympics & Euros will happen.
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There are a number of key legal issues that need to be addressed. Duties of care will be imposed on employers by statute, in H&S law, tort & in contract. Are the RTP protocols capable of creating a reasonably safe working environment for athletes?
#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw
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Proving causation may be tricky. Factually, can the athlete prove they contracted the virus at work? How will legal systems around the world respond to this issue? UK law will probably use the 'material contribution to risk' test as for other industrial diseases.
#Sportslaw
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#Sportslaw
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Lots to consider as sport continues to emerge from lockdown. Thanks to @tammigaw @BrendanSchwab @garethfarrelly1 Loïc Alves @FIFPro & @spcott for helping to develop these thoughts.
#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw #torts
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#FootyLaw20 #sportslaw #torts
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